The Dallas Cowboys endured a whirlwind day filled with major roster moves. Their biggest headline came when the front office decided to part ways with superstar linebacker Micah Parsons. Instead of committing to him with a long-term contract, Dallas opted to trade the All-Pro defender to the Green Bay Packers. In return, the Cowboys received two first-round picks along with veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark.

Parting with Parsons is already a devastating setback, but it wasn’t the only personnel hit Dallas absorbed. After finalizing their 53-man roster cuts, another young player slipped away. Defensive end Tyrus Wheat, who had been viewed as a strong candidate for the practice squad, was scooped up on waivers by the Detroit Lions.

Lions Add Depth by Claiming Wheat

Wheat’s NFL journey began as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He initially joined the Cowboys’ practice squad before earning a promotion to the active roster in October. Though his defensive impact was modest—just three tackles across 12 games—he carved out steady contributions on special teams.

The following season in 2024, Wheat saw more opportunities on defense, appearing in eight games and recording 14 tackles along with half a sack. Still, the depth along Dallas’ defensive line left him on the outside looking in when roster cuts were made. The Cowboys likely hoped to retain him on the practice squad, but those plans fell apart once Detroit stepped in with a waiver claim.

According to Patrik Walker of the Cowboys’ official site, Wheat was the only waived Dallas player to be claimed by another franchise. His move to Detroit gives Dan Campbell an extra rotational lineman who can also bolster the special teams unit.

Cowboys Face Holes Up Front

While Wheat was not a star, losing him stings when combined with the shocking departure of Parsons. Dallas now finds itself with a thinner defensive line rotation and a front seven that looks much different than expected heading into Week 1.

Replacing Parsons’ production will be an impossible task for any single player, and the absence of Wheat removes another potential depth option. With the season opener just days away, the Cowboys’ defensive coaching staff will need to reshape their strategy quickly to account for the absence of their biggest playmaker—and the loss of one of their most reliable role players.